Monday, January 3, 2011

You already know how important it is to have your own business cards handy at all times. Now that you have your own small business, you want to network with as many people as possible, so get as many peoples' business cards as you can. When you get these business cards, you'll want to utilize them in a way that is more than just filling your pocket. Don’t let them go into a desk drawer and sit for a month.

After you meet the person and get their card, give them a call to spark both your interests and prove your ability to communicate. If you get a hold of them great; if not, send them an email to make sure they see your interest. Then, the most effective way to spark a relationship is to do another follow-up call. Tip: be sure to keep track of these business cards in another place. Create a working document that stores all of these contacts. Business cards are easy to lose, and you want to be able to look at all of your contacts at once. Keep your contacts organized!

You want to network with potential clients and partners on a regular basis, so they see that you will be available when they want your services. Put yourself in the shoes of the person you are calling. Wouldn’t you like to see that they are attentive to your needs and interests? Of course you would, and subsequently you are interested in doing business with them. Make other businesses want to do business with you. Get their business card, give them a call. It is that easy. If the relationship doesn’t work out, you've only spent a few hours of your day trying to make it work. Even if it doesn’t work, you have made an impression and they will remember your name and company for a possible referral. You never want to miss out on a partner or client that will help to drive more business.